Home fires are among of the most common reasons for filing a claim on home insurance. Fortunately, it’s simple to make some changes around your home in order to prevent the risk of a fire. We’ve compiled some tips to help you keep your home and family safe.
General Fire Safety 
- Never leave burning candles unattended. Candles should be placed on sturdy surfaces out of reach of children and pets.
- Avoid smoking inside of your home.
- Flammable objects should be kept at least three feet away from candles, grills, stovetops and any other sources of heat.
Fire Safety Equipment
- Routinely change the batteries in your smoke alarms, even if they aren’t chirping to signal a low battery.
- Install carbon monoxide detectors throughout your home.
- Keep a few fire extinguishers around your home, and ensure that everyone knows how to use them.
Kitchen Concerns
- Because of cooking appliances, most home fires ignite in the kitchen — primarily around the stovetop. Keep towels, paper products and other flammable items far away from heat.
- If a pot or pan catches fire, turn off the heat and put a lid over the fire until it’s extinguished. Do not try to move it or douse it with water.
- If a fire ignites inside the oven, turn off the heat and leave the door closed until the fire is extinguished.
- You may need to turn on a fan or open a window if smoke from cooking is triggering a smoke alarm. Do not dismantle the smoke alarm.
By putting a little thought into protecting your house from fire risks, you can rest at ease, knowing that your family is safe. But even so, accidents can still happen. Discuss a fire safety plan with your family so everyone knows what to do and where to go if a fire does occur. Also, call your insurance agent to ensure that your home insurance provides enough coverage in the event of a disaster.
Are you covered? Call us for more information on home insurance.